The US government is considering deporting Afghan nationals currently detained in the country back to their home country through Pakistan, according to court documents reviewed by The Associated Press. The plan involves repatriating individuals who had previously assisted US military and aid organizations in Afghanistan.

Advocacy groups warn that this policy could endanger the lives of those being deported, as they may face retaliation from the Taliban. Many of these individuals fled Afghanistan due to persecution and feared for their safety. The administration’s proposal has sparked concerns among immigrant rights organizations, which argue that the move could place people at risk.

This decision comes amid ongoing discussions about the status of Afghan nationals in the US following the 2021 withdrawal of American forces. The Trump administration, which is currently in the process of transitioning power, has been criticized for its handling of the situation. The plan to use Pakistan as a transit point has raised questions about the safety and legal protections of those being repatriated. The Associated Press reports that the documents reveal the administration’s intent to proceed with the deportations.

The policy has drawn attention from human rights advocates, who emphasize the potential risks involved. The situation highlights the complex challenges faced by Afghan nationals in the aftermath of the US military presence in the country.